Prevalence and Factors Associated with Risky Sexual Behaviors among Patients with Severe Mental Illness in Uganda: A Descriptive Cross Sectional Study

Background: Persons living with severe mental illness (SMI) which includes schizophrenia, bipolar affective disorder and recurrent major depressive disorder are predisposed to risky sexual behavior (RSB). There is a paucity of data on this problem in sub-Saharan Africa and where research has been undertaken, only a limited range of risk factors have been considered and most of it was undertaken before antiretroviral therapy was universally available, hence the need for this study. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with risky sexual behavior among individuals with SMI attending care in central and south western Uganda. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 393 persons with SMI attending two psychiatric out-patient facilities in Uganda. Psychiatric disorder was confirmed using MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview version 7.2. RSB was defined as engaging in at least one of four risky sexual behaviours that have been associated with HIV infection in the Ugandan psychosocial environment in the last three months using an 8 item RSB questionnaire used for assessment of RSB. Prevalence of RSB and associated correlates were determined using multiple logistic regression. Results: The Prevalence of RSB in last 3 months’ periods was 24.2% (95% CI: 20.2% - 28.7%). The factors that were independently significantly associated with RSB were: trauma related (history of childhood trauma, past and current sexual abuse, past and current physical abuse) current psychosocial challenges (mental health stigma) and psychiatric illness factors (history of a past manic episode, current psychotic episode, severity of depressive symptoms and severity of manic symptoms). Conclusions: One quarter of clinic attending respondents with severe mental illness in Uganda practice risky sexual behaviour. Factors associated with risky sexual behaviour fall under the domains of past and present trauma, current psychosocial challenges and psychiatric illness factors. This calls for a multi-sectoral approach that includes community awareness about the nature of SMI and the rights of persons with SMI and measures to improve Psychiatric symptom management.

Understanding Anger and Effective Anger Management Techniques(A Short Review)

This article explores the complex topic of rage and its important concomitant,anger management.Anger is a natural emotion that is experienced in many ways.Its triggers,body reactions,and mental components are all examined.Developing techniques for efficient anger management begins with an understanding of the nature of rage.This short review emphasizes the significance of anger management,stressing its critical role in preserving mental and physical health,stimulating personal development,and preserving relationships.Anger that is out of control can have serious ramifications,such as long-term stress,poor decision-making,damaged relationships,and legal issues.In order to provide readers with practical knowledge,an extensive range of effective strategies for managing anger is provided.These techniques include deep breathing,cognitive restructuring,self-awareness,and physical practices including progressive muscle relaxation and exercise.Other essential elements of anger control are stress reduction,obtaining professional help,and developing effective communication skills.The conclusion highlights the transformative potential of anger management,highlighting that the key to effectively managing and utilizing this powerful emotion is not about repressing anger.By putting these strategies into practice and seeing anger as a chance for development and transformation,people can start down the path to greater wellbeing,more wholesome relationships,and a more peaceful life.